You’ve Been Told You Have Periodontal Disease… What’s Next?
Being diagnosed with periodontal (gum) disease means there’s inflammation and infection in the tissues supporting your teeth — and without proper care, it can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss.
But the good news is, periodontal disease is treatable and manageable with professional care and good home habits.
Here’s what to expect and what you should do next:
Get a Full Periodontal Evaluation
Schedule an appointment with a periodontist for a comprehensive exam.
We’ll assess the health of your gums, measure pocket depths, and evaluate your bone levels with digital imaging.
Depending on the severity, you may need:
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning) — to remove plaque and bacteria beneath the gums
Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings — every 3-4 months to control disease progression
Surgical Treatment — like pocket reduction, bone grafting, or gum grafts if advanced bone loss or recession is present
Dental Implants — in cases of tooth loss from severe periodontal disease
Prioritize Consistent Professional Cleanings
Routine cleanings won’t be enough. You’ll likely need deeper cleanings and maintenance visits more often than the usual 6 months to keep bacteria under control.
Improve Your Daily Oral Care at Home
managing periodontal disease isn’t just about professional cleanings — it requires a daily, deliberate home care routine to control bacterial plaque between visits.
✅ Brush 2x a day with a soft or electric toothbrush (2 minutes, 45° angle to gumline).
✅ Clean between your teeth daily — use floss, interdental brushes, or a water flosser.
✅ Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and inflammation.
✅ Clean your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.
These small daily habits make a huge difference in halting disease progression.
Address Risk Factors
If you have diabetes, immune-related conditions, or smoke — controlling these factors is essential for successful treatment and gum health.
Keep Up With Follow-Ups
Periodontal disease is chronic. Regular visits (every 3-4 months) help prevent relapse and catch early signs of progression.
Remember:
The earlier you take action, the better your chances of preserving your natural teeth and bone.
We’re here to help you take control of your gum health at every stage. 💚
